Two degrees Celcius and the sun is shining. The frozen bay is spread before us! My husband and I are dressed for the cold as we park by the boardwalk in North Rustico on the central north shore of Prince Edward Island. We haven't been back here since July and everything is covered in its frozen shroud. We are curious to compare the scenes of summer with winter in North Rustico.
The Acadian monument is partially buried in the snow now, waiting for its time to remind visitors of that proud heritage. The shrubs behind the monument are mere skeletons of their former selves.
Only vestiges of some plants, such as Queen Anne's Lace, remain now, the stalks and seed pods having survived the worst nature can dispense.
The entrance to the bay is the only open water in the March setting.
Winds have taken their toll on the patriotic display at Court's Wharf.
The pine trees have lost their brilliant green as a result of the decrease in daylight hours in the cold season.
Ouside the bay, the breakwater is encased in ice and snow.
Activity on the bay is different now, snow machines replacing human power.
Yet, some things never change. The lighthouse stands vigil as it has for almost a century and a half, though it might be ready for spring. We are!
